Few tourist attractions define a city quite like the Tower of London defines London. Standing majestically on the northern bank of the Thames River, surrounded by centuries of mystery, drama, and royal intrigue, the Tower is more than just a tourist site – it is a piece of British history.

This comprehensive guide by JustAirports covers the detailed history, the iconic secrets, and the tips and tricks of visiting the fortress. Whether you are a historical geek or simply visiting for the first time, this guide will make you navigate your trip like a pro.

A short history of the Tower of London

The Tower of London was founded in 1066 by William the Conqueror during the Norman conquest, and he built it as a part of the symbol of power during this era. It started as a military fortress, then a royal palace turned prison, which also operated as a treasury and animal zoo, and now stands proudly as one of the famous wonders of the world.

Important Events from History:

  • The royal apartments used to reside in the White Tower, built in 1078
  • Anne Boleyn, Guy Fawkes, and Sir Walter Raleigh were all prisoners here at some point in time
  • The Crown Jewels have been housed there since the beginning of the 14th century
  • The Tower was notorious for executions during the Tudor times

Fascinating Trivias & Lesser-Known Facts

  • Between the 1200s and 1800s, the Tower kept lions, elephants, and even a bear that used to fish in the Thames as royal gifts; there was once a zoo on site.
  • The law protects the Ravens. Legend states that if the Ravens ever leave the Tower, the kingdom would fall; now, seven ravens are on site, six required by tradition, and 1 for good measure.
  • Worst Mistake branches were it Everything from Anne Boleyn and the princes in the towers have been reported to be sighted so it is safe to say that the Tower is one of the most haunted places in England.
  • The Tower had chosen some original protection factors that can still be seen and used to brand new measures like trap doors and secret corridors that level 4 guards the crown jewels.
  • The Yeoman Warders, or Beefeaters, reside at the site. They are tour guides and ceremonial guards. To become one, a person must serve in the military for at least 22 years.
  • A pub that is not widely known exists in the Tower. For the residents of the Tower and the Yeoman Warders, there is a little pub only meant for them.

Best Ways to Get There

Tower of the Address: London EC3N 4AB, United Kingdom

From Major Airports:

  • From Heathrow Airport: Reserve a private transfer through JustAirports (1 hr to 1 hr 15 mins).
  • JustAirports transfer for Gatwick Airport in 75-90 mins.
  • Stansted/Luton: In a private car, expect 90-100 minutes.
  • With JustAirports: London City Airport is 25-35 minutes.
  • From Southampton Airport: Long-distance transfer with JustAirports in 90-120 minutes.
  • Avoid the hassle of tube transfers, confusing platforms, and luggage hauling.
  • Start your day with convenience and no stress through JustAirports.

Important Information for Visitors

– Opening Hours: Usually 9 AM – 5:30 PM (note season changes)
– Tickets: Purchase online to avoid long wait times. Kid and combo tickets so family packs are available too
– Tour Options:
o Yeoman Warder Guided Tours (included with ticket)
o Audio Guides with Apps
o Custom Private History Tours
– Accessibility: Roughly all places are wheelchair friendly; uneven pathing and stairs could be an issue.

Don’t Miss These Highlights

  • Crown Jewels Exhibition: Regalia from royal coronations kept here.
  • White Tower Museum: Home to the Royal Armouries Collection.
  • Torture Tower: Medieval punishment education.
  • Tower Green: The place where Anne Boleyn and Lady Jane Grey were executed.
  • Raven Enclosure: Tour the most famous and mysterious residents of the Tower.

Pro Tips for Traveling

  • Expect The Most Collision If You Show Up Around mid-morning: Starts to fill up.
  • Make Turns Reservation Beforehand: Self-planned Summer schedules and vacation times.
  • Free Move Shoes: Worth a Tower visit; cover vast areas with rocky ground.
  • No Photography in The Crown Jewels Vault: General crown jewel rules are no crown jewel photos.
  • Best Tower Bridge snapshots from the outer walls.

Adjacent Attractions

  • Tower Bridge- 2-min walk.
  • The Shard- 15-min walk.
  • Borough Market- 20-minute walk.
  • HMS Belfast 10-min walk.

Pair your Tower visit with a day of riverfront walks.

FAQs

Q1: How much time do I need to visit the Tower of London?

For history buffs, plan on spending about 2-3 hours, but you might want to stay even longer.

Q2: Is there food available inside?

Yes, there are light meals and snacks at the onsite cafe.

Q3: Can I visit in the evenings?

No, regular night visits are not allowed, but special events are held during the evening from time to time.

Q4: Is it suitable for children?

Without a doubt! The Crown Jewels and the Ravens provide captivate children.

Q5: Can I book a historical walk on a full-day plan with Just Airports?

Yes! Just request a visit with one of our tour guides when you are booking your flight.

Final Word

The Tower of London is a striking window to Britain’s military, regal, and cultural history. Living history is not only for people on business trips or traveling with family or on history tours; the journey starts once you land in London.

Ever wonder about the story behind each stone, the crown, or the secret? Allow Just Airports to manage your travels, and they will ensure that you take in everything the Tower has to enjoy.

To remember your trip to the Tower, reserve a city visit as soon as you book a transfer to the airport via www.justairports.com.